When traveling or communicating with individuals from diverse backgrounds, it’s always helpful to know how to say common words like “mall” in different languages. In this guide, we will learn how to say “mall” in various languages, including both formal and informal equivalents. Additionally, we’ll explore regional variations where necessary. So, let’s dive into this linguistic adventure!
Table of Contents
1. English
In English, the word commonly used to refer to a shopping complex is “mall.” This term is universally understood across English-speaking countries, making it a convenient word to use in most situations. In more formal or corporate settings, you might come across the term “shopping center” as well.
2. Spanish
In Spanish, the word for “mall” is “centro comercial.” This term is used across Spain and most Latin American countries. However, it’s worth noting that in some Latin American countries, locals may use their own regional variations. For instance, in Mexico, you might hear “plaza comercial” or “centro plaza.”
3. French
If you find yourself in a French-speaking country, the term for “mall” is “centre commercial.” This formal phrase is widely used in France, as well as in several countries in Africa and the Caribbean where French is spoken. On a more informal note, you may hear locals refer to a mall as “centre d’achats.”
4. German
In German, the word used for “mall” is “Einkaufszentrum.” This comprehensive term can be applied across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. However, in informal conversations, natives might use the colloquial term “Einkaufsmeile” or “Einkaufsparadies.”
5. Italian
In Italian, the word for “mall” is “centro commerciale.” Similar to other languages, this term is widely accepted across Italy. Another common phrase you might come across, particularly in more casual contexts, is “centro di shopping.”
6. Portuguese
Portuguese-speaking countries predominantly use the word “shopping” to refer to a mall. Whether in Portugal or countries like Brazil, Angola, or Mozambique, you can comfortably use this term. For a more colloquial approach, Brazilians might say “shopping center” or simply “shopping.”
7. Hindi
Hindi, spoken predominantly in India, offers a rich and diverse vocabulary. To express “mall” in Hindi, you can say “ख़रीदारी का केंद्र” (kharidari ka kendr), which literally translates to “shopping center” or “शॉपिंग मॉल” (shopping mall) for a more informal touch.
8. Japanese
In Japanese, you can say “ショッピングモール” (shoppingu mōru) to mean “mall.” This term is widely used in Japan and understood by most Japanese speakers.
9. Mandarin (Chinese)
In Mandarin Chinese, the term “mall” can be expressed as “购物中心” (gòuwù zhōngxīn). This formal term is used universally across China, Taiwan, and Singapore. However, locals in informal settings may refer to a mall as “商场” (shāngchǎng) in mainland China or “購物廣場” (gòuwù guǎngchǎng) in Taiwan.
10. Russian
Russian speakers generally use the word “торговый центр” (torgovyy tsentr) to refer to a mall. This term can be used in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and other countries where Russian is spoken. In more casual conversations, individuals may also use the term “молл” (mall) borrowed from English.
11. Arabic
In Arabic, the word used for “mall” is “مركز تجاري” (markaz tijari), which translates to “commercial center.” This term is understood across several Arab-speaking regions, including the Middle East and North Africa.
12. Korean
To express “mall” in Korean, you can say “쇼핑몰” (shopingmol). This term is widely used in South Korea, where the bustling shopping scene makes malls a common sight.
13. Swahili
In Swahili, a widely spoken language in East Africa, you can say “kituo cha ununuzi” to mean “mall.” Swahili is spoken in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda, where malls have become increasingly popular in recent years.
14. Thai
In Thai, the word used for “mall” is “ห้างสรรพสินค้า” (h̄ảng s̄rnph s̄in k̄ĥā). This comprehensive term is used in Thailand to describe malls of varying sizes and types.
15. Turkish
When conversing in Turkish, you can use the term “alışveriş merkezi” to mean “mall.” Turkish malls are famous for their vibrant atmosphere, and the Turkish language reflects this excitement through its word choice.
These are just a few examples of how to say “mall” in different languages. Remember, language is incredibly diverse and ever-evolving, so variations and regional nuances may exist. However, armed with these common phrases, you can confidently navigate through malls across the globe while immersing yourself in different cultures.
Happy shopping!
